Nissan skyline GTR

 Nissan Skyline GT-R is most popular in Japan

Nissan Skyline GT-R – Japan’s Legendary Performance Icon

Overview

The Nissan Skyline GT-R is one of the most celebrated Japanese performance cars ever made. Originally part of the Skyline range by Prince Motor Company (later merged with Nissan in 1966), the GT-R badge became synonymous with high performance, advanced technology, and motorsport dominance. Produced across multiple generations between 1969 and 2002, the Skyline GT-R is the direct predecessor to the modern Nissan GT-R (R35).

History & Generations

  1. First Generation (Hakosuka – PGC10/KPGC10, 1969–1972)

    • Nicknamed “Hakosuka” (boxy Skyline) by fans.

    • 2.0L inline-6 S20 engine (160 hp).

    • Famous for its lightweight body and racing success in Japan.

  2. Second Generation (Kenmeri – KPGC110, 1973)

    • Short production run due to the oil crisis.

    • Similar engine to the first generation.

    • More refined design but only 197 units produced.

  3. Third Generation (R32 GT-R, 1989–1994)

    • Nicknamed “Godzilla” by Australian press due to its dominance in touring car racing.

    • 2.6L twin-turbo RB26DETT inline-6 (280 hp, officially under Japan’s Gentleman’s Agreement).

    • Advanced ATTESA E-TS AWD system and Super-HICAS rear-wheel steering.

    • Multiple Group A racing titles.

  4. Fourth Generation (R33 GT-R, 1995–1998)

    • Slightly larger and more stable at high speeds.

    • Same RB26DETT engine, improved aerodynamics, and safety.

    • Special editions like Nismo 400R with ~400 hp.

  5. Fifth Generation (R34 GT-R, 1999–2002)

    • Most advanced Skyline GT-R before the R35 GT-R became a standalone model.

    • Updated RB26DETT, advanced multi-function display (MFD) in the dash.

    • Popularized globally through video games, movies (Fast & Furious), and motorsports.

Performance Highlights

  • Engine: RB26DETT 2.6L twin-turbo inline-6 (R32–R34)

  • Power Output: ~280 hp stock (often underrated; real figures were higher)

  • Drivetrain: ATTESA E-TS AWD system

  • Handling: Super-HICAS rear steering for cornering agility

  • Top Speed: ~250 km/h (limited)

  • 0–100 km/h: ~4.9 sec (varies by generation)

Motorsport Legacy

  • Dominated Group A racing in Japan and Australia during the R32 era.

  • Earned the “Godzilla” nickname for crushing international competition.

  • Served as a platform for Nismo’s motorsport engineering.

Legacy & Collectibility

The Skyline GT-R is now a JDM legend, with clean R32, R33, and R34 models becoming highly sought-after by collectors.

  • R34 GT-R V-Spec II Nur models have sold for over $500,000 at auctions.

  • Popular in tuner culture — easily capable of 600+ hp with modifications.

  • Cemented in pop culture through Gran Turismo, Initial D, and Fast & Furious.


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